Despite a political consensus that NATO needs to beef up its defenses on the Eastern flank, a growing divide is emerging among the NATO member states on how to do so. The varying views of NATO members, both in the west and in the east, have been exacerbated by Russia's actions in Ukraine and its subsequent aggression in the Baltic region.
The United States is responsible for ensuring that NATO can respond to threats to its Eastern flank. It's difficult to answer the question whether NATO is capable and able to respond effectively. There are several obstacles that must be overcome in order to protect NATO's Eastern flank.
Russia's forward defenses include missile sites and fighter aircraft bases. These defenses allow Moscow to engage NATO reinforcements before they reach forward-deployed units. NATO can no longer do as much on its Eastern flank than before. However, many good minds are working to come up with ways to strengthen the Eastern flank.
Moving equipment across Europe is another problem. In the past, moving troops and equipment across Europe was relatively easy. Today, it is much more complex to move troops. It is difficult to move troops quickly across Europe while still maintaining their capabilities. Moreover, dedicated weapons may not be available in sufficient quantities.
Another challenge is the need for permanent forces on the Eastern flank. NATO members disagree over whether these forces should exist in a rotating, permanent or small scale. Many Central Europeans have concerns about U.S. troops going to Europe. Others are worried about Russia's ability use the NATO Russia Found Act as a means to sow divisions within NATO.
NATO and its member states must come to an agreement on a long-term strategy for defending Russia. This strategy should include deterrence and resilience as well as unity. It must take into consideration cyber-attacks and hybrid threats. NATO must also agree on an approach that considers the different interests of all its members. The resulting strategy must also address how the NATO Eastern flank will be strengthened and reinforced.
Some NATO members are worried that Russia might invade Latvia. Others aren't so sure. Despite these fears, many recognize the importance of a permanent presence in the Eastern flank. There are other ways of strengthening the Eastern flank. For example, a Military Schengen would allow equipment free movement to Eastern flank nations.
While NATO has made a lot of progress in strengthening its east-facing defenses, there is still a split on its role. Some members from the south feel that NATO isn't doing enough to ensure their security. These fears decrease the solidarity among NATO members. The United States counters the fears by offering defense guarantees. This strategy can only strengthen NATO's capabilities of deterrence.
NATO is responding to Russia's ongoing offensive in Ukraine. NATO responded by bolstering its Eastern flank with dispersed forces and strengthening its defenses. Similar divisions have been overcome before by NATO's major allied countries working together. In the future, the Eastern flank will be the front line of conflict in Europe. This new frontline, which will appear in the Baltic region, will be a significant challenge for NATO's forces. However, Russia's threat to NATO has become increasingly complex and powerful. This raises doubts about NATO’s ability for effective response.